Game system, game system control method, and program

Abstract

This game system includes: a game mechanism for dropping a first game medium on which related information is visibly displayed from a game table by reciprocation of a movable table on the game table; and a control part for progressing a game according to the related information on the first game medium dropped from the game table.

Description

Game system, game system control method and program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to games.

[0002] For example, games using game media such as disc-shaped medals (token coins) have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a pusher game in which medals and balls are dropped from individual fields by moving a pusher back and forth on the individual fields.

[0003] JP 2011-120844 A

[0004] However, with the configuration of Patent Document 1, a user cannot easily understand how the game progresses when a medal or ball falls from an individual field. To help users understand the progress of the game, it is conceivable to provide the user with an explanation of the relationship between the falling of a medal or ball and the progress of the game. However, the user must shift their gaze from the individual field to read the explanation, which creates a problem of being unable to concentrate on playing the game. In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to enable a user to understand the relationship between the falling of a gaming medium and the progress of the game while keeping their gaze fixed on the gaming mechanism.

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, a game system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a game mechanism that drops a first game medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a game table by moving a movable table back and forth on the game table, and a control unit that progresses a game in accordance with the related information of the first game medium that has dropped from the game table.

[0006] A control method for a game system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for a game system having a game mechanism that drops a first game medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a game table by moving a movable table back and forth on the game table, and includes progressing a game according to the related information of the first game medium that has dropped from the game table.

[0007] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a game system having a gaming mechanism that drops a first gaming medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a gaming table by moving a movable table back and forth on the gaming table, to function as a control unit that progresses a game in accordance with the related information of the first gaming medium that has dropped from the gaming table.

[0008] 10 is a schematic diagram of a lottery area on a battle screen. A schematic diagram of a lottery area in a modified example which is a flowchart of a battle lottery game. A schematic diagram of a lottery area in a modified example. A plan view of a game system according to a first embodiment. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of a game system. A plan view of a station. A schematic diagram of a game card. A plan view and a side view of a supply device. A flowchart of control processing. An explanatory diagram of a movement amount lottery. An example of related information displayed by a display device. An explanatory diagram of a preparatory lottery game. A plan view of a lottery unit. A perspective view of a lottery unit. A cross-sectional view along line XII-XII in FIG. 10. A schematic diagram of a lottery area on a battle screen. A schematic diagram of a lottery area in a modified example which is a flowchart of a battle lottery game. A schematic diagram of a lottery area in a modified example. A plan view of a game card in a modified example. A plan view of a game card in a modified example. A plan view of a game card in a modified example.

[0009]

[0032] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments exemplified below include various limitations that are not essential to the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments exemplified below.

[0010] 1 is a plan view of a gaming system 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The gaming system 100 is installed in, for example, a gaming facility. The gaming facility may be, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The gaming system 100 provides games to users within the gaming facility.

[0011] 1, the game system 100 of the first embodiment is composed of two game units 10 installed with their backs facing each other. Each game unit 10 is composed of two stations 11 and one lottery unit 12. The lottery unit 12 is located between the two stations 11.

[0012] Each station 11 is a unit used by a user (i.e., a player) to play a game. Games by different users progress in parallel at multiple stations 11. The lottery unit 12 is a physical lottery mechanism used for lotteries in which users participate. The lottery unit 12 of each game unit 10 is shared by the users of the stations 11 of that game unit 10. Note that while FIG. 1 illustrates four stations 11 and two lottery units 12 for convenience, the number of stations 11 and lottery units 12 is arbitrary. For example, a lottery unit 12 may be installed for each station 11 (i.e., the same number as the number of stations 11).

[0013] 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game system 100. The game system 100 of the first embodiment includes four stations 11, two lottery units 12, a control device 13, and a storage device 14. The game system 100 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as a plurality of devices configured separately from each other.

[0014] The control device 13 is composed of one or more processors that control each element of the game system 100. For example, the control device 13 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a sound processing unit (SPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Some or all of the functions of the control device 13 may be installed in each station 11. The control device 13 is an example of a "control unit."

[0015] The storage device 14 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 13 and various data used by the control device 13. The storage device 14 is configured with a known storage medium such as a magnetic storage medium or a semiconductor storage medium. The storage device 14 may also be configured with a combination of multiple types of storage medium. Furthermore, the storage device 14 may be a portable storage medium that is detachable from the game system 100, or a storage medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 13 can write to or read from via a communication network.

[0016] The user can battle enemy characters as the game progresses. The storage device 14 stores related information E for each of multiple types of enemy characters that will be opponents of the user. The related information E includes an image E1 and a control parameter E2. The image E1 is an image of the enemy character. The control parameter E2 is a variable that represents the ability value of the enemy character. Specifically, the control parameter E2 includes the stamina value E21 of the enemy character and a reward amount E22. The reward amount E22 is the amount of reward that will be awarded to the user if the user wins the battle against the enemy character (battle lottery game).

[0017] 3 is a plan view of any one of the stations 11. In the following description, an X-axis and a Y-axis are assumed to be orthogonal to each other in a horizontal plane. Specifically, the X-axis is an axis extending from side to side of the user, and the Y-axis is an axis extending from front to back of the user. Furthermore, one direction along the X-axis is referred to as the "X1 direction," and the direction opposite the X1 direction is referred to as the "X2 direction." Similarly, one direction along the Y-axis is referred to as the "Y1 direction," and the direction opposite the Y1 direction is referred to as the "Y2 direction."

[0018] 3, the station 11 of the first embodiment includes a display device 21, an operation unit 22, and a game mechanism 23. Each station 11 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as a plurality of devices configured separately from each other.

[0019] The display device 21 displays images under the control of the control device 13. The display device 21 is configured with a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) panel. Note that the display devices 21 of the two stations 11 that make up one game unit 10 may each be configured with a single display panel.

[0020] The operation unit 22 in Fig. 3 is an interface that accepts operations by a user. Specifically, the operation unit 22 includes an operation device 221, a reception device 222, and a dispensing device 223. The operation device 221 is an input device that accepts instructions from a user. The operation device 221 is, for example, an operator operated by the user or a touch panel that detects contact by the user.

[0021] The reception device 222 accepts medals from users. Specifically, the reception device 222 accepts physical medals and electronic medals from players. Physical medals are tangible, disk-shaped game value. Electronic medals are intangible game value realized by electronic data. The mechanism of the reception device 222 that accepts physical medals includes an insertion slot into which the physical medals are inserted and a detector that detects the insertion of the physical medals into the insertion slot. Furthermore, the mechanism of the reception device 222 that accepts electronic medals is, for example, a communication device that communicates with an account management system (not shown) that manages the user's electronic medal account. For example, the reception device 222 executes a withdrawal process for the electronic medals by communicating with the account management system.

[0022] Medals (physical or electronic medals) received by the reception device 222 from a user are exchanged for credits. Specifically, a value corresponding to the number of medals received by the reception device 222 is added to the credits held by the user (hereinafter referred to as "held credits"). The held credits are the gaming value consumed by the user to play the game. The held credits are stored in the storage device 14.

[0023] The payout device 223 pays out medals to users. Specifically, the payout device 223 pays out medals in a quantity corresponding to the user's held credits. The mechanism of the payout device 223 that outputs physical medals includes a storage container that stores physical medals and a discharge mechanism that sequentially discharges the physical medals from the storage container. Furthermore, the mechanism of the payout device 223 that outputs electronic medals is a communication device that executes the deposit process of electronic medals by communicating with the account management system described above.

[0024] The gaming mechanism 23 is a mechanism that provides a game to a user. The gaming mechanism 23 of the first embodiment provides a pusher game to a user. Specifically, the gaming mechanism 23 includes a gaming table 31, a movable table 32, a fixed wall 33, a supply system 34, and a detection device 35.

[0025] The gaming table 31 is a flat structure including a surface that is approximately parallel to the X-Y plane (i.e., a horizontal plane). The gaming table 31 includes a tip portion 311. The tip portion 311 is a peripheral edge of the gaming table 31 located in the Y1 direction and extends along the X axis. A long opening is formed in the Y1 direction of the tip portion 311 along the X axis.

[0026] The movable table 32 is a platform-like structure including a surface that is approximately parallel to the X-Y plane (i.e., a horizontal plane). The movable table 32 moves back and forth in the Y-axis direction above the gaming table 31. The surfaces of the gaming table 31 and the movable table 32 may be, for example, a flat surface inclined relative to the horizontal plane, or may be a three-dimensionally curved surface. In the following description, the space above the gaming table 31 and the movable table 32 will be referred to as the "game field F."

[0027] A plurality of types of game media P (P1, P2, P3, P4) of different shapes are placed on the game field F. Each game medium P is a medium used in a game provided by the game system 100. Specifically, a game card P1, a game medal P2, a game ball P3, and a game card P4 are placed on the game field F as game media P.

[0028] The game medal P2 and the game ball P3 are placed on the game table 31 and the movable table 32. The game card P1 and the game card P4 are placed on the game table 31. Note that the game card P1 is an example of a "first game medium," the game medal P2 is an example of a "second game medium," the game ball P3 is an example of a "third game medium," and the game card P4 is an example of a "fourth game medium."

[0029] 4 is a schematic diagram of a gaming card P1. The gaming card P1 is a flat card formed into a substantially rectangular shape. Therefore, even if a large number of gaming cards P1 are stacked on the gaming table 31, the game can proceed smoothly.

[0030] As shown in Figure 4, the related information R is displayed on the gaming card P1. Specifically, the related information R is printed near the center of the gaming card P1 in the longitudinal direction. In the first embodiment, the related information R is printed on both sides of the gaming card P1. As explained above, the related information R is displayed on the gaming card P1 in a manner that is visible to the user.

[0031] The related information R is information that is applied to the progress of the game in the first embodiment. The content of the related information R differs for each game card P1. The related information R in the first embodiment includes an image R1 and a control parameter R2. The image R1 is, for example, an image of various characters. Specifically, the image R1 is an image of a companion character (hereinafter referred to as a "companion character") that cooperates with the user in a battle against an enemy character. The control parameter R2 is a variable that represents the ability value of the companion character represented by the image R1. Specifically, the control parameter R2 includes an attack power R21 and a defense power R22. The attack power R21 is a parameter related to the attack power of the companion character, and the defense power R22 is a parameter related to the defense power of the companion character.

[0032] An electronic tag 36 is also attached to the gaming card P1. The electronic tag 36 is a communication device (e.g., an IC tag or RF tag) capable of contactlessly transmitting and receiving information to and from an external device. The electronic tag 36 of the gaming card P1 stores the related information R printed on the gaming card P1. Note that identification information for identifying the related information R may be held in the electronic tag 36. For example, among the multiple pieces of related information R stored in the storage device 14, one piece of related information R identified by the identification information is specified as the related information R corresponding to the gaming card P1.

[0033] As described above, the game medal P2 in Figure 3 is a disc-shaped game medium P. For example, a physical medal (token coin) received by the reception device 222 is used as the game medal P2. The game ball P3 is a rollable sphere. In other words, the game medal P2 and the game ball P3 have different shapes. The diameter of the game ball P3 is greater than the diameter of the game medal P2.

[0034] The gaming card P4 is a flat card shaped in a substantially rectangular shape, similar to the gaming card P1. An image E1 of an enemy character is printed on the gaming card P4. The gaming card P1 and the gaming card P4 may have the same shape or different shapes. The gaming card P1 and the gaming card P4 may have the same size or different sizes. For example, the gaming card P4 is larger than the gaming card P1. If the gaming card P1 and the gaming card P4 have different sizes, the gaming card P1 and the gaming card P4 can be distinguished from each other based on their size differences.

[0035] 3 is a structure facing the surface of the movable table 32. The game media P (e.g., game medals P2 and game balls P3) placed on the movable table 32 are pressed in the Y1 direction by the fixed wall 33 as the movable table 32 moves in the Y2 direction. Pressed by the fixed wall 33, the multiple game media P fall from the movable table 32.

[0036] Furthermore, the game media P (P1 to P4) placed on the game table 31 are moved in the Y1 direction by being pressed by the movable table 32. For example, the game card P1, placed on multiple game medals P2, moves in conjunction with the game medals P2. The same applies to the game ball P3 and game card P4. Each game medium P moves on the game table 31 as described above and ultimately falls from the tip 311. As described above, the game mechanism 23 of the first embodiment is a mechanism that causes multiple game media P placed on the game table 31 to fall from the tip 311. That is, according to the first embodiment, a pusher game is realized in which multiple types of game media P (P1, P2, P3, P4) are dropped from the game table 31 by the reciprocating movement of the movable table 32.

[0037] The supply system 34 supplies each game medium P to the game field F. The supply system 34 includes a supply device 341, a supply device 342, a supply device 343, a supply device 344, and a supply device 345.

[0038] The supply device 341 is a card vendor that supplies the game card P1 to the game field F in response to an instruction from the control device 13. For example, the supply device 341 supplies the game card P1 onto the game table 31. The supply device 341 is an example of a "first supply device."

[0039] FIG. 5 is a plan view and a side view of the supply device 341. FIG. 5 illustrates the temporal changes (states 1 to 4) of the supply device 341. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the supply device 341 of the first embodiment includes a transport mechanism 37 and a rotating body 38. The transport mechanism 37 is, for example, a mechanism including a pair of rollers that sandwich the gaming card P1, and the rotation of the rollers advances the gaming card P1 toward the gaming field F (i.e., the gaming table 31 and the movable table 32). The rotating body 38 is a disk-shaped handle that rotates in conjunction with the rollers of the transport mechanism 37. Furthermore, the rollers of the transport mechanism 37 rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating body 38. That is, the supply device 341 of the first embodiment advances the gaming card P1 toward the gaming field F by controlling the rotation of the rollers of the transport mechanism 37 or the rotating body 38.

[0040] 5, the supply device 341 of the first embodiment supplies the game card P1 to the game field F by advancing the game card P1 intermittently multiple times. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the supply device 341 advances the game card P1 in stages while the user holds the game card P1 in a state where the related information R can be viewed. That is, the supply device 341 moves the game card P1 by a predetermined movement amount D. The movement amount D is the distance the game card P1 advances in one movement.

[0041] For example, in the initial state 1, only a portion of the tip of the gaming card P1 is exposed from the supply device 341, and the user cannot see the related information R. In state 2, as a result of the gaming card P1 being moved from state 1, the user can see only the image R1 of the related information R of the gaming card P1. In state 3, as a result of the gaming card P1 being moved from state 2, the user can see all of the related information R of the gaming card P1 (the image R1 and the control parameter R2). As exemplified in state 4, the supply device 341 finally releases the gaming card P1 onto the gaming table 31 after the gaming card P1 has progressed a predetermined number of times. The gaming card P1 released from the supply device 341 is placed on the gaming table 31.

[0042] 3 supplies game medals P2 to the game field F. Specifically, the supply device 342 supplies game medals P2 onto the game table 31 or the movable table 32. The supply device 342 of the first embodiment supplies game medals P2 to the game field F in response to instructions from the user via the operation device 221. The supply device 342 is an example of a "second supply device."

[0043] 3, the operation device 221 of the first embodiment includes an angle operator 221a and an insertion operator 221b. The angle operator 221a is an operator for changing the angle of the supply device 342 relative to the movable table 32. The insertion operator 221b is an operator for instructing the supply device 342 to insert a game medal P2.

[0044] The user adjusts the angle of the supply device 342 by operating the angle operator 221a, and when the movable table 32 reaches the desired position, operates the insertion operator 221b to insert the game medal P2 into the game field F. As can be understood from the above explanation, the position in the game field F to which the game medal is supplied by the supply device 342 is changed according to instructions from the user.

[0045] The supply device 343 supplies game balls P3 to the game field F in response to instructions from the control device 13. For example, the supply device 343 supplies game balls P3 onto the game table 31 or the movable table 32. The supply device 344 supplies game cards P4 to the game field F in response to instructions from the control device 13. For example, the supply device 344 supplies game cards P4 onto the game table 31. The supply device 344 is an example of a "fourth supply device."

[0046] The supply device 345 supplies the game medals P2 to the game field F in response to instructions from the control device 13. Specifically, the supply device 342 supplies the game medals P2 onto the game table 31 or the movable table 32. The supply device 342 supplies the game medals P2 to the game field F in response to instructions from the user, while the supply device 345 supplies the game medals P2 to the game field F as, for example, a reward to be given to the user.

[0047] The detection device 35 is a sensor that detects game media P that have fallen from the game table 31. Specifically, the detection device 35 includes a sorting mechanism that sorts game cards P1, game medals P2, game balls P3, and game cards P4, and an optical sensor (not shown) that detects each game medium P sorted by the sorting mechanism. The game media P that have fallen from the game table 31 are transported along a transport path (not shown) and supplied to the supply system 34. That is, each game medium P circulates within the game mechanism 23. For example, after falling from the game table 31, the game card P1 is transported to the supply device 341, the game medals P2 are transported to the supply device 342, the game balls P3 are transported to the supply device 343, and the game card P4 is transported to the supply device 344.

[0048] 6 is a flowchart of a process (hereinafter referred to as a "control process") executed by the control device 13. For example, the control process is started in response to an operation by a user on the operation device 221. The control process is an example of a "control method."

[0049] When the control process is started, the control device 13 determines whether or not the user has instructed the insertion of the game medal P2 by operating the operation device 221 (insertion operator 221b) (Sa1). If the user has instructed the insertion of the game medal P2 (Sa1: YES), the control device 13 controls the supply device 342 to supply the game medal P2 to the game field F (Sa2). On the other hand, if the user has not instructed the insertion of the game medal P2 (Sa1: NO), the control device 13 does not execute the insertion of the game medal P2 (Sa2).

[0050] The control device 13 determines whether the number of inserted game medals P2 in response to an instruction from the user has reached a predetermined value (Sa3). If the number of inserted game medals P2 has reached the predetermined value (Sa3: YES), the control device 13 controls the supply device 343 to supply game balls P3 to the game field F (Sa4). On the other hand, if the number of inserted game medals P2 has not reached the predetermined value (Sa3: NO), the control device 13 does not supply game balls P3 (Sa4).

[0051] The condition for supplying the game ball P3 is not limited to the number of inserted game medals P2 reaching a predetermined value. For example, the game ball P3 may be supplied to the game field F when any condition is met, such as the number of game medals P2 dropped from the game table 31 reaching a predetermined value or the user winning a lottery game.

[0052] The control device 13 determines whether the game ball P3 has fallen from the game table 31 (Sa5). If the game ball P3 has fallen (Sa5: YES), the control device 13 executes a movement amount lottery (Sa6). The movement amount lottery is a process of probabilistically determining the movement amount D of the game card P1 in the supply device 341 by lottery.

[0053] 7 is an explanatory diagram of the movement amount lottery. The movement amount lottery is an electronic lottery using a lottery roulette 41. Specifically, the control device 13 displays the lottery roulette 41 and an indicator 42 on the display device 21. The lottery roulette 41 is a circular display object on which a plurality of options 43 corresponding to different movement amounts D (D=1, 2, 3, 4) are arranged in the circumferential direction. The indicator 42 is an image that indicates a specific point in the circumferential direction on the lottery roulette 41. Note that the plurality of options 43 on the lottery roulette 41 may include an option to not move the gaming card P1 (D=0).

[0054] The control device 13 spins the lottery roulette 41 and stops the lottery roulette 41 when a predetermined stop condition is met. The stop condition for the lottery roulette 41 is, for example, that a predetermined time has elapsed since the lottery roulette 41 started to spin, or that the user has instructed the lottery roulette 41 to stop by operating the operation device 221. The control device 13 determines, as the lottery result, the amount of movement D indicated by the indicator 42 at the time the lottery roulette 41 stops.

[0055] The control device 13 controls the supply device 341 to advance the game card P1 by the movement amount D determined by the movement amount lottery (Sa7). As described above, the supply device 341 of the first embodiment advances the game card P1 each time the progress condition (hereinafter referred to as the "progress condition") is met, with the condition being that the game ball P3 falls from the game table 31. Then, when the total of the movement amounts D reaches a predetermined value, the game card P1 falls from the supply device 341 onto the game field F, as illustrated as state 4 in FIG. 5. In other words, the supply device 341 releases the game card P1 onto the game field F when the progress condition is met multiple times.

[0056] As described above, in the first embodiment, the game card P1 is not released from the supply device 341 when the progress condition is met only once, but the game card P1 gradually advances each time the progress condition is met. That is, the game card P1 is held in the supply device 341 until the progress condition is met multiple times. Therefore, compared to a mode in which the game card P1 is released onto the game field F when the progress condition is met once, the user's anticipation of the game card P1 being released onto the game field F can be maintained for a long time. Also, as described above with reference to FIG. 5 , by gradually advancing the game card P1, the user can gradually view the related information R displayed on the game card P1. Note that the game card P1 may be supplied from the supply device 341 to the game field F when the progress condition is met once.

[0057] As described above, the gaming card P1 placed on the gaming table 31 moves in the Y1 direction together with the other gaming media P (P2, P3, P4) by being pressed by the movable table 32. The control device 13 determines whether the gaming card P1 has fallen from the gaming table 31 (Sa8).

[0058] When the gaming card P1 falls from the gaming table 31 (Sa8: YES), the control device 13 acquires the related information R from the gaming card P1 and stores the related information R in the storage device 14 (Sa9). As illustrated in Fig. 8, the control device 13 displays the related information R of the gaming card P1 that fell from the gaming table 31 on the display device 21 (Sa10). Specifically, the image R1 of the friend character printed on the gaming card P1 and the control parameters R2 (attack power R21 and defense power R22) related to the ability values ​​of the friend character are displayed on the display device 21.

[0059] The control device 13 determines whether the number of game cards P1 that have fallen from the game table 31 (hereinafter referred to as the "falling number") has reached a predetermined value N (Sa11). If the number of game cards P1 that have fallen has reached the predetermined value N (Sa11: YES), the control device 13 executes a preparatory lottery game (Sa12). The preparatory lottery game is a process of probabilistically determining an enemy character that will compete against the user by lottery.

[0060] 9 is an explanatory diagram of the preparatory lottery game. The preparatory lottery game is an electronic lottery using a lottery roulette 45. Specifically, the control device 13 displays the lottery roulette 45 and an indicator 46 on the display device 21. The lottery roulette 45 is a circular display object on which a plurality of options 47 corresponding to different enemy characters are arranged in the circumferential direction. The indicator 46 is an image that indicates a specific point in the circumferential direction on the lottery roulette 45.

[0061] The control device 13 spins the lottery roulette 45 and stops the lottery roulette 45 when a predetermined stop condition is met. The stop condition for the lottery roulette 45 is, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the lottery roulette 45 started to spin, or when the user has instructed the lottery roulette 45 to stop by operating the operation device 221. The control device 13 identifies the enemy character indicated by the indicator 46 at the time the lottery roulette 45 stops as the lottery result. In other words, the opponent against the user is determined. As can be understood from the above explanation, the preparatory lottery game is a game in which one of a plurality of options 47 is selected. The preparatory lottery game is an example of a "second lottery game." Furthermore, each option 47 on the lottery roulette 45 is an example of a "second option."

[0062] When the enemy character is determined by the preparatory lottery game exemplified above, the control device 13 executes a battle lottery game (Sa13). The battle lottery game is a lottery game that uses the related information R of the N game cards P1 that have fallen from the gaming table 31. Specifically, the battle lottery game is a game in which the outcome of a battle with an enemy character is determined by lottery. The lottery unit 12 of FIG. 1 is used in the battle lottery game.

[0063] Fig. 10 is a plan view of the lottery unit 12, and Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the lottery unit 12. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in Fig. 10. As illustrated in Figs. 10 to 12, the lottery unit 12 includes a lottery mechanism 51, a drive device 52, and a display device 53.

[0064] The lottery mechanism 51 is a flat structure installed substantially horizontally. Specifically, the lottery mechanism 51 includes a lottery wheel 511 and side wall portions 512 and 513. The lottery wheel 511 is a rectangular structure having a lottery surface 514 as its upper surface. A plurality of protrusions 515 are installed at intervals on the lottery surface 514. Each protrusion 515 is a protrusion that protrudes vertically upward from the lottery surface 514. The shape and size of each protrusion 515 may be the same or different. Furthermore, the plurality of protrusions 515 may be evenly distributed on the lottery surface 514, or may be installed at different densities in different regions of the lottery surface 514.

[0065] The lottery wheel 511 includes a front end 541, a rear end 542, a side end 543, and a side end 544. The front end 541 is an edge of the lottery wheel 511 located on the front side as seen from the user. The rear end 542 is an edge of the lottery wheel 511 located on the back side as seen from the user.

[0066] The side end portion 543 is the left edge of the lottery wheel 511, and the side end portion 544 is the right edge of the lottery wheel 511. The side wall portion 512 is a wall portion that extends along the side end portion 543 of the lottery wheel 511 and protrudes vertically upward from the lottery surface 514. The side wall portion 513 is a wall portion that extends along the side end portion 544 of the lottery wheel 511 and protrudes vertically upward from the lottery surface 514.

[0067] The lottery wheel 511 is supported in a state where it can rotate about a rotation axis C along the rear end 542. The drive device 52 is, for example, an electric motor that rotates the rotation axis C. When the rotation axis C is driven by the drive device 52, the lottery wheel 511 swings about the rotation axis C, as illustrated in FIG. 12 . Specifically, the lottery wheel 511 repeatedly rotates from one state where the lottery surface 514 is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal plane to another state where the lottery surface 514 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal plane. When the lottery surface 514 is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal plane, the lottery ball B approaches the rear end 542 of the lottery wheel 511. On the other hand, when the lottery surface 514 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal plane, the lottery ball B stops moving toward the rear end 542 or approaches the front end 541 of the lottery wheel 511.

[0068] 10 is supplied to the lottery surface 514 of the lottery wheel 511. The lottery ball B is a spherical rolling body. For example, the game ball P3 may be used as the lottery ball B, or a lottery ball B having a different shape or size from the game ball P3 may be used.

[0069] The display device 53 displays an image under the control of the control device 13. The display device 53 is configured with a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. Note that the display device 53 of the lottery unit 12 and the display device 21 of each station 11 may form a single display panel.

[0070] A gap (hereinafter referred to as "lottery groove 56") is formed between the rear end 542 of the lottery wheel 511 and the display device 53. The lottery groove 56 is a space extending along the rear end 542. The groove width of the lottery groove 56 is greater than the diameter of the lottery ball B. Therefore, the lottery ball B that has passed the rear end 542 of the lottery wheel 511 falls into the lottery groove 56. The detection device 57 in FIG. 10 is an optical sensor that detects the arrival of the lottery ball B at the lottery groove 56. Specifically, the detection device 57 can detect the position at which the lottery ball B falls in the longitudinal direction of the lottery groove 56 (hereinafter referred to as "arrival position").

[0071] As described above, the lottery wheel 511 swings with the lottery ball B placed on the lottery surface 514. Therefore, the lottery ball B moves on the lottery surface 514 while changing its direction of movement in any direction due to the swinging of the lottery wheel 511, collision with each protrusion 515, and collision with the side wall portion 512 or the side wall portion 513. As described above, the lottery ball B moves irregularly on the lottery surface 514, gradually approaching the rear end portion 542 (display device 53) of the lottery wheel 511, and finally falls into the lottery groove 56. The arrival position of the lottery ball B is detected by the detection device 57.

[0072] In the battle lottery game, the control device 13 displays a battle screen 60, as shown in FIG. 11 , on the display device 53. The battle screen 60 includes a battle area 61 and a lottery area 62. The battle area 61 is an area where a battle between the user and an enemy character takes place. Specifically, the battle area 61 displays an image E1 and a vitality value E21 of the enemy character, as well as the vitality value H possessed by the user.

[0073] The vitality value H is a numerical value of the vitality possessed by the user. For example, the control device 13 sets the vitality value H to a numerical value obtained by adding up the defensive strengths R22 of the N game cards P1 dropped from the game table 31. The vitality value H may be a fixed value set in advance, or may be a numerical value designated by the user by operating the operation device 221. On the other hand, the vitality value E21 is a numerical value of the vitality of an enemy character, and is included in the control parameter E2 stored in the storage device 14, as described above.

[0074] A plurality of options 63 are displayed in the lottery area 62. Each option 63 is a rectangular image of equal size. The options 63 are arranged in a straight line along the lottery groove 56 near the bottom side of the display device 53. The option 63 is an example of a "first option."

[0075] The control device 13 selects one option 63 corresponding to the arrival position of the lottery ball B from the plurality of options 63 in the lottery area 62. Specifically, the option 63 closest to the arrival position is selected from the plurality of options 63. As described above, the competition lottery game is a game that progresses according to the arrival position of the lottery ball B on the lottery mechanism 51. That is, in the first embodiment, the lottery ball B rolls due to the swinging of the lottery mechanism 51, and the competition lottery game progresses according to the arrival position of the lottery ball B. Therefore, it is possible to provide the user with the excitement of hoping that the lottery ball B will arrive at a desired position on the lottery mechanism 51.

[0076] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the lottery area 62. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the multiple options 63 include N options 63a corresponding to the N gaming cards P1 dropped from the gaming table 31. The option 63a corresponding to the gaming card P1 displays related information R (image R1 and control parameter R2) of the gaming card P1. The order in which the gaming cards P1 are assigned to each of the multiple options 63a is arbitrary. For example, the multiple options 63a may be assigned randomly, in the order in which the gaming cards P1 were dropped from the gaming table 31, or in the order instructed by the user through an operation of the operating device 221.

[0077] When option 63a is selected by the lottery ball B from among the multiple options 63 in the lottery area 62, the user can attack the enemy character. That is, the control device 13 subtracts the vitality value E21 of the enemy character in accordance with the control parameter R2 of the related information R corresponding to option 63a. Specifically, the control device 13 subtracts a numerical value in accordance with the attack power R21 of the control parameter R2 from the vitality value E21 of the enemy character.

[0078] Of the multiple options 63, the options 63b other than the N options 63a represent the user's defense against attacks from enemy characters. That is, when option 63b is selected by the lottery ball B from the multiple options 63, the control device 13 subtracts the user's stamina value H. Specifically, the control device 13 subtracts the stamina value H according to the control parameter R2 of the related information R corresponding to option 63a. For example, a numerical value inversely proportional to the defensive power R22 of the control parameter R2 is subtracted from the user's stamina value H.

[0079] As illustrated above, the control device 13 progresses the battle lottery game in accordance with the related information R of the N game cards P1 dropped from the game table 31. Specifically, the battle lottery game is a game in which a player selects one of a plurality of options 63, including the option 63a corresponding to the related information R of the game card P1 dropped from the game table 31. With the above configuration, the user can easily understand the relationship between the related information R of the game card P1 dropped from the game table 31 and the result of the first battle lottery game. The user adjusts the supply positions of the game medals P2 so that game cards P1 of a combination that will enable the user to advantageously develop the battle lottery game are dropped from the game table 31.

[0080] The game cards P1 of the friend characters with high ability values ​​indicated by the control parameter R2 are supplied less frequently by the supply device 341, and the game cards P1 of the friend characters with low ability values ​​are supplied more frequently.

[0081] 14 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of the battle lottery game (Sa13). When the battle lottery game starts, the control device 13 displays a battle screen 60 on the display device 53 (Sb1). The control device 13 selects N options 63a from the multiple options 63 in the lottery area 62, and displays related information R of any of the N game cards P1 in each option 63a. Of the multiple options 63, each option 63 other than option 63a is set to an option 63b corresponding to an enemy character.

[0082] The control device 13 controls the supply device 55 to supply the lottery ball B to the lottery mechanism 51 (Sb2). The lottery ball B moves irregularly on the lottery surface 514 that repeatedly oscillates around the rotation axis C, and finally falls into the lottery groove 56. The control device 13 uses the detection result by the detection device 57 to identify, from the plurality of options 63, the option 63 that corresponds to the arrival position of the lottery ball B (Sb3). That is, the control device 13 selects one of the plurality of options 63.

[0083] The control device 13 determines whether the option 63 selected by the lottery ball B is the option 63a corresponding to the game card P1 (Sb4). As described above, the option 63a corresponds to an attack against an enemy character, and the option 63b corresponds to an attack by the enemy character.

[0084] If option 63b is selected (Sb4: NO), the control device 13 subtracts the user's stamina value H (Sb5). For example, the control device 13 subtracts a predetermined value from the user's stamina value H. The control device 13 determines whether the stamina value H after the subtraction is equal to or less than 0 (Sb6). If the stamina value H remains (Sb6: NO), the control device 13 proceeds to step Sb2. That is, the match-up lottery game continues.

[0085] On the other hand, if the stamina value H decreases to 0 or less, it means that the user has lost. If the stamina value H is 0 or less (Sb6: YES), the control device 13 ends the match lottery game (Sb7). The control device 13 initializes the information on the game cards P1 stored in the storage device 14 for the user (Sb8). For example, the control device 13 erases the information on N game cards P1 stored in the storage device 14. When the match lottery game ends according to the above procedure, the control device 13 proceeds to step Sa14 in FIG. 6.

[0086] If the option 63a indicating an attack on an enemy character is selected (Sb4: YES), the control device 13 subtracts the enemy character's vitality value E21 (Sb9). For example, the control device 13 subtracts the attack power R21 of the game card P1 corresponding to the option 63a from the enemy character's vitality value E21. The control device 13 determines whether the vitality value E21 after the subtraction is 0 or less (Sb10). If the vitality value E21 remains (Sb10: NO), the control device 13 proceeds to step Sb2. That is, the battle lottery game continues.

[0087] On the other hand, a state in which the vitality value E21 has decreased to 0 or less indicates the user's victory (defeat of the enemy character). If the vitality value E21 is 0 or less (Sb10: YES), the control device 13 controls the supply device 344 to supply a game card P4 to the game field F (Sb11). The game card P4 corresponds to the enemy character against which the user defeated in this battle lottery game. As explained above, the supply device 344 supplies the game card P4 corresponding to the option 63 (enemy character) selected in the preparation lottery game to the game field F in accordance with the result of the battle lottery game. Through the above processing, the control device 13 ends the battle lottery game (Sb7). The control device 13 initializes the information on the game card P1 stored in the storage device 14 for the user (Sb8) and proceeds to step Sa14 of FIG. 6.

[0088] As described above, the control device 13 progresses the battle lottery game in accordance with the related information R of the N game cards P1 dropped from the game table 31 and the result of the preparatory lottery game (i.e., the type of enemy character). That is, the progress of the battle lottery game is influenced not only by the related information R of the game cards P1 dropped from the game table 31 but also by the result of the preparatory lottery game. Therefore, compared to a mode in which the progress of the battle lottery game is influenced only by the related information R of the game cards P1, it is possible to diversify the progress of the battle lottery game.

[0089] If the match lottery game ends according to the above procedure, or if the game card P1 does not fall from the game table 31 (Sa8: NO), the control device 13 determines whether the game card P4 has fallen from the game table 31 (Sa14), as illustrated in FIG. 6 . If the game card P4 has fallen (Sa14: YES), the control device 13 awards a reward to the user (Sa15). For example, the control device 13 controls the supply device 345 to supply a predetermined amount of game medals P2 to the game field F. The number of game medals P2 awarded to the user as a reward is set to the aforementioned reward amount E22 for the enemy character stored in the storage device 14. In other words, a variable amount of reward depending on the type of enemy character is awarded to the user. Note that the reward awarded to the user is not limited to game medals P2. For example, a predetermined amount may be added as a reward to the user's owned credits. On the other hand, if the game card P4 has not fallen (Sa14: NO), the control device 13 transitions the process to step Sa1.

[0090] As explained above, in the first embodiment, a reward is not awarded to the user when the match lottery game ends, but is awarded to the user when the game card P4 supplied in the match lottery game falls from the game table 31. Therefore, an incentive can be given to the user to progress through the game so that the game card P4 falls from the game table 31. Furthermore, an effective incentive can be given to a user aiming to obtain a reward to continue playing the game until the game card P4 falls from the game table 31.

[0091] As described above, in the first embodiment, the related information R is visibly displayed on the gaming card P1, and the battle lottery game progresses according to the related information R of the gaming card P1 that has fallen from the gaming table 31. Therefore, the user can understand the progress of the battle lottery game as the gaming card P1 falls while keeping their eyes fixed on the gaming mechanism 23 (particularly the gaming field F). For example, the user can concentrate on the game, watching as the gaming card P1 that is advantageous in the battle lottery game falls from the gaming table 31, without shifting their gaze to an explanation provided near the gaming mechanism 23. As a result of the user being able to concentrate on the game as described above, the use of gaming medals P2 by users is encouraged, and as a result, an increase in revenue from the operation of the gaming system 100 can be expected.

[0092] For example, in the first embodiment, an image R1 of a friend character is displayed on a game card P1. Therefore, by referring to the external characteristics of the friend character, the user can imagine, for example, the abilities and developments in a battle with an enemy character. For example, even if the friend character is a character that appears in a work such as an anime or manga, the user can imagine the abilities and developments in a battle with an enemy character.

[0093] Another proposed example of a conventional pusher game is one in which a medal tower, consisting of multiple stacked medals P2, is formed on the gaming table 31. Users can win a large number of medals P2 by dropping the medal tower from the gaming table 31. However, in the conventional pusher games described above, the higher the medal tower, the more difficult it becomes to move on the gaming table 31, leading users to often give up on dropping the medal tower. This creates a problem of unfairness among users, since other users who start playing immediately after a user gives up can win a large number of medals P2 by dropping the medal tower. In contrast to conventional pusher games, in the first embodiment, flat gaming cards P1 are placed on the gaming table 31, so the difficulty of dropping the gaming cards P1 does not change excessively depending on the number of gaming cards P1 on the gaming table 31. As described above, the difficulty of dropping the gaming cards P1 is suppressed, which has the advantage of reducing the sense of unfairness among users.

[0094] In the first embodiment, in particular, a match lottery game is executed using the related information R of the gaming card P1 that has fallen from the gaming table 31. Therefore, it is possible to effectively encourage the user to play the game while paying attention to the gaming card P1.

[0095] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the user can adjust the supply position of the game medals P2 from the supply device 342 to the game field F. Therefore, the user can, for example, adjust the supply position of the game medals P2 so that the desired game card P1 is more likely to drop from the game table 31. For example, the user can imagine an enemy character selected in the preparatory lottery game and adjust the supply position of the game medals P2 so that the game card P1 that will give the user an advantage in a battle with the enemy character drops from the game table 31. Furthermore, because the related information R is displayed on the game card P1, the user can check the related information R of the game card P1 and adjust the supply position of the game medals P2 while keeping their eyes on the game field F.

[0096] In the first embodiment, each time a progress condition including the drop of the game ball P3 is met, the game card P1 advances in the supply device 341. Therefore, an effective incentive can be given to the user to supply a large number of game medals P2 to the game field F in order to promote the drop of the game ball P3. Also, a highly entertaining game can be realized in which the user hopes that the game ball P3 will reach a state in which the progress condition is satisfied so that the game card P1 is released from the supply device 341.

[0097] Second Embodiment A second embodiment will be described. Note that, for elements in the following exemplary aspects that have the same functions as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment will be used, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted as appropriate.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the condition for the supply device 341 to advance the game card P1 is, for example, that the game ball P3 falls from the game table 31. In the second embodiment, the condition for advancement is a condition related to the state of the game medal P2, and the game card P1 is advanced toward the game field F each time the condition for advancement is met.

[0099] Specifically, the conditions for progression in the second embodiment include, for example, the following: (1) the game medal P2 enters a lottery hole (a so-called chukka) installed in front of the movable table 32; (2) the user wins the lottery that is started when the game medal P2 enters the lottery hole; (3) the game medal P2 falls from the movable table 32 onto the game table 31; (4) the game medal P2 reaches a predetermined position on the game field F; (5) the number of game medals P2 that have fallen from the game table 31 reaches a predetermined value; and (6) the number of game medals P2 that have been supplied to the game field F reaches a predetermined value.

[0100] The second embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the fulfillment of a progress condition related to the state of the game medal P2 promotes the release of the game card P1 onto the game field F. This therefore promotes the supply of game medals P2 in response to instructions from the user (i.e., the use of game medals P2 by the user). Furthermore, a highly entertaining game is realized in which the user hopes that the game medals P2 will reach a state that satisfies the progress condition, so that the game card P1 will be released from the supply device 341.

[0101] [Modifications] Specific modifications that can be added to the above-described embodiments are exemplified below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be combined as appropriate within the scope of not mutually contradicting each other.

[0102] (1) In the above-described embodiments, the supply device 341 moves the game card P1 in a direction toward the game field F (hereinafter referred to as the "discharge direction"), but the supply device 341 may move the game card P1 in a direction opposite to the discharge direction (hereinafter referred to as the "storage direction") when a predetermined condition is met. For example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the most recent progress condition was met, the supply device 341 may move the game card P1 by a predetermined amount in the storage direction.

[0103] (2) In the above-described embodiments, the game medals P2 are supplied to the game field F when the user operates the insertion operator 221b, but the game medals P2 may be automatically supplied to the game field F without the user needing to issue an insertion instruction. For example, when the movable table 32 is located within a predetermined range on the Y axis, the supply device 342 may supply a predetermined number of game medals P2 to the game field F.

[0104] (3) In the above-described embodiments, the supply device 341 moves the gaming card P1 by the movement amount D set in the movement amount lottery. However, the movement amount D may be controlled, for example, according to the game situation. Specifically, the control device 13 may identify the number of gaming cards P1 placed on the gaming table 31 (hereinafter referred to as the "placed number") and change the movement amount D according to the placed number. For example, the control device 13 may decrease the movement amount D as the placed number increases. Note that while the above description focuses on the movement amount D of the gaming card P1, the number of movements required for the supply device 341 to dispense the gaming card P1 may also be controlled according to the situation, such as the number of placed cards. For example, the control device 13 may increase the number of movements required as the placed number increases.

[0105] (4) If the progress condition is satisfied again within a predetermined time after the game card P1 is moved due to the satisfaction of the progress condition, the amount of movement D may be increased compared to the normal state. In other words, if the progress condition is satisfied consecutively within a predetermined time, the control device 13 may increase the amount of movement D each time the progress condition is satisfied.

[0106] (5) In the above-described embodiments, the attack power R21 and the defense power R22 are exemplified as the control parameter R2 of the companion character, but the content of the control parameter R2 is not limited to these examples. For example, the control parameter R2 may define the ability value of the companion character using a scale such as “high,” “medium,” or “low.”

[0107] Furthermore, a special effect that can be used by a friend character may be specified by the control parameter R2. Examples of the special effect specified by the control parameter R2 include a special effect that increases the ability value of the friend character corresponding to the option 63a, a special effect that restores the stamina value H of the user, a special effect that increases the number of lottery balls B supplied in parallel from the supply device 55 to the lottery wheel 511, and a special effect that nullifies the decrease in the stamina value H when the option 63b is selected.

[0108] The control parameter R2 may specify the attribute of the friend character. The attribute of the friend character is a type (e.g., water attribute, fire attribute, wind attribute, etc.) used to determine the compatibility or superiority / inferiority of the friend character with respect to the enemy character. When a friend character with an attribute that is superior to the attribute of the enemy character (i.e., an attribute that is compatible with the enemy character) is selected in the battle lottery game, the control device 13 executes processing to increase the control parameter R2 of the friend character or processing to decrease the control parameter E2 of the enemy character. On the other hand, when a friend character with an attribute that is inferior to the attribute of the enemy character (i.e., an attribute that is incompatible with the enemy character) is selected in the battle lottery game, the control device 13 executes processing to decrease the control parameter R2 of the friend character or processing to increase the control parameter E2 of the enemy character.

[0109] Furthermore, the probability that each of the multiple options 63 will be selected in the battle lottery game may be controlled according to the relationship (e.g., compatibility or superiority) between the attributes of the friend character and the attributes of the enemy character. For example, if the attributes of the friend character are superior to the attributes of the enemy character, as illustrated in FIG. 15 , the options 63a corresponding to the friend character are displayed in a larger size than the options 63b corresponding to the enemy character. Therefore, the probability that the lottery ball B will reach the option 63a is higher than the probability that the lottery ball B will reach the option 63b. In other words, the probability that the option 63a will be selected is higher than the option 63b (i.e., the probability that the enemy character can be attacked).

[0110] On the other hand, for example, if the attributes of the friend character are in a subordinate relationship to the attributes of the enemy character, each option 63b corresponding to the enemy character is displayed in a larger size than each option 63a corresponding to the friend character, as illustrated in Fig. 16. Therefore, the probability that the lottery ball B will reach the option 63b is higher than the probability that the lottery ball B will reach the option 63a. In other words, the probability that the option 63b will be selected is higher than the option 63a (i.e., the probability that the player will be attacked by the enemy character).

[0111] (6) In each of the above-described embodiments, a lottery game (preparatory lottery game and battle lottery game) is executed when N game cards P1 fall from the game table 31 (Sa11: YES), but the conditions for executing the lottery game are not limited to the above examples.

[0112] For example, the control device 13 may execute a lottery game when N types of game cards P1 fall from the game table 31. The types of game cards P1 are distinguished, for example, according to the types of companion characters. Furthermore, even if the types of companion characters are the same, if the control parameter R2 is different, the game cards P1 may be recognized as different types of game cards P1. Even when N game cards P1 fall from the game table 31, if two or more game cards P1 have the same type (i.e., the number of types of game cards P1 does not reach N), the lottery game will not be started. Furthermore, the control device 13 may execute a lottery game, for example, when a predetermined combination is formed with multiple game cards P1 fallen from the game table 31.

[0113] (7) In the above-described embodiments, the preparatory lottery game is executed when N game cards P1 fall from the game table 31. However, the timing at which the preparatory lottery game is executed is not limited to the above examples. For example, the preparatory lottery game may be executed when the user starts the game. The preparatory lottery game determines the enemy character. After recognizing the enemy character determined in the preparatory lottery game, the user adjusts the supply position of the game medal P2 so that the game card P1 that will give the user an advantage in the battle against the enemy character falls from the game table 31.

[0114] Furthermore, in a mode in which enemy characters are determined in advance by a preparatory lottery game, the battle lottery game (Sa13) may be started when a combination of game cards P1 corresponding to the type of enemy character falls from the game table 31. The combination of game cards P1 (type and number of game cards P1) that is the start condition of the battle lottery game is set for each type of enemy character. For example, when enemy character A is selected, the battle lottery game starts when game card a1 and game card a2 fall from the game table 31. On the other hand, when enemy character B is selected, the battle lottery game starts when game card b1, game card b2, and game card b3 fall from the game table 31.

[0115] As described above, information (e.g., related information R) of the gaming card P1 dropped from the gaming table 31 is stored in the storage device 14. Of the multiple gaming cards P1 dropped from the gaming table 31, information of each gaming card P1 that is a start condition for the competition lottery game may be erased from the storage device 14 (Sb8), and information of each other gaming card P1 may be maintained in the storage device 14. The gaming card P1 corresponding to the information maintained in the storage device 14 is used to determine whether the start condition for the next and subsequent competition lottery games is met.

[0116] (8) As described above, there are cases where multiple gaming cards P1 of the same type fall from the gaming table 31. The storage device 14 may store the number of gaming cards P1 that have fallen from the gaming table 31 (hereinafter referred to as the "fall number") for each type of gaming card P1. Furthermore, when a specific type of gaming card P1 is applied as a start condition for the competition lottery game, the control device 13 subtracts 1 from the fall number for that type stored in the storage device 14.

[0117] (9) When multiple game cards P1 of the same type fall from the game table 31 (i.e., when two or more cards fall), the control device 13 may grant a bonus to the user. For example, the control device 13 may supply a predetermined amount of game medals P2 from the supply device 345 to the game field F as a bonus. The control device 13 may also increase some or all of the control parameters R2 of the game cards P1. For example, the control device 13 may determine the type or amount of increase of the control parameters R2 to be increased as a bonus through a lottery process or in response to instructions from the user. The image R1 of the companion character may change in conjunction with the increase in the control parameter R2. The increase in the control parameter R2 or the change in the image R1 may also be expressed as the evolution (or limit breaking) of the companion character.

[0118] (10) In the above-described embodiments, the related information R is displayed on the game card P1 of the friend character. However, as shown in FIG. 17, the related information E of the enemy character may be displayed on the game card P4 corresponding to the enemy character. For example, an image E1 of the enemy character and control parameters E2 (stamina value E21 and reward amount E22) are printed on both sides of the game card P4. In addition, an electronic tag 36 that stores the related information E is attached to the game card P4.

[0119] A plurality of game cards P4 corresponding to different types of enemy characters are placed on the game table 31. The control device 13 may start a battle lottery game (Sa13) when a game card P4 falls from the game table 31. In the battle lottery game, the user battles against the enemy character corresponding to the game card P4 that fell from the game table 31. In a mode in which the battle lottery game is started in response to the fall of the game card P4 of the enemy character, the preparatory lottery game for determining the enemy character may be omitted.

[0120] The control device 13 acquires an image E1 and a control parameter E2 of an enemy character in the battle lottery game from the electronic tag 36 of the gaming card P4. The image E1 and the control parameter E2 of the gaming card P4 are displayed in the multiple options 63b in the lottery area 62 on the battle screen 60. Furthermore, when multiple gaming cards P4 of the same type are dropped from the gaming table 31, the ability value of the enemy character may be changed compared to when a single type of gaming card P4 is dropped. For example, when multiple gaming cards P4 of the same type are dropped, the control device 13 increases some or all of the control parameter E2 of the enemy character. Furthermore, the control device 13 may increase the reward amount E22 of the enemy character.

[0121] (11) In the battle lottery game, when the lottery ball B passes through a specific position on the lottery wheel 511, an effect for advantageously developing the battle lottery game may be granted to the user. For example, the control device 13 grants a special effect when the lottery ball B passes between two specific protrusions 515 among the multiple protrusions 515. Examples of the special effect include a special effect that increases the ability value of the friend character corresponding to the option 63a, a special effect that restores the vitality value H of the user, a special effect that increases the number of lottery balls B supplied in parallel from the supply device 55 to the lottery wheel 511, or a special effect that nullifies the decrease in the vitality value H when the option 63b is selected.

[0122] (12) In the above-described embodiments, a physical lottery in which one of the multiple options 63 in the lottery area 62 is selected by the lottery ball B is exemplified as the competitive lottery game, but the content of the competitive lottery game is not limited to the above examples. For example, one of the multiple options 63 may be selected by an electronic lottery using a lottery roulette on which multiple options 63, including option 63a and option 63b, are arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0123] (13) In the above-described embodiments, the control device 13 acquires the related information R stored in the electronic tag 36 of the gaming card P1. However, the configuration for the control device 13 to acquire the related information R of the gaming card P1 is not limited to the above examples. For example, the control device 13 may acquire the related information R by image recognition of the related information R printed on the gaming card P1. Alternatively, the control device 13 may acquire the related information R by reading an image code printed on the gaming card P1 together with the related information R. The image code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) or a barcode that graphically describes the related information R. The same applies to the method of acquiring the related information E of an enemy character from the gaming card P4 illustrated in FIG. 17. That is, the control device 13 may acquire the related information E by recognizing information (related information E or image code) printed on the gaming card P4.

[0124] (14) When the supply device 341 moves the gaming card P1, a configuration in which the user gradually becomes aware of the related information R printed on the gaming card P1 is preferable from the perspective of maintaining the user's sense of anticipation, rather than a configuration in which the user immediately recognizes the entire related information R printed on the gaming card P1. Therefore, for example, when the supply device 341 moves the gaming card P1 in the longitudinal direction, a configuration in which the related information R is displayed in the center of the gaming card P1 in the longitudinal direction is preferable, as illustrated in FIG. 4 above. With the above configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 5, immediately after the movement of the gaming card P1 begins, the related information R is hidden by the supply device 341 (State 1), and as the gaming card P1 moves, portions of the related information R are gradually revealed from the supply device 341 (States 2 and 3). This configuration provides the user with an effective incentive to continue playing the game until the entire related information R is visible.

[0125] Furthermore, according to the embodiment in which the related information R is displayed in the center of the gaming card P1 in the moving direction of the supply device 341, the aforementioned effect is realized in which the related information R is gradually recognized by the user regardless of the orientation of the gaming card P1 contained in the supply device 341. In other words, according to the embodiment in which the related information R is printed in the center of the gaming card P1, there is an advantage in that a mechanism for unifying the orientation of the gaming cards P1 contained in the supply device 341 is not required.

[0126] In the above-described embodiments, the supply device 341 moves the gaming card P1 in the longitudinal direction, but a configuration in which a rectangular gaming card P1 is moved in the lateral direction is also possible, as illustrated in Fig. 18. As described above, from the viewpoint of maintaining the user's sense of anticipation, the related information R is displayed in the center of the gaming card P1 in the lateral direction, as illustrated in Fig. 18.

[0127] The direction of the related information R relative to the longitudinal direction of the gaming card P1 is arbitrary. For example, while FIG. 4 illustrates a gaming card P1 on which the related information R is printed with the longitudinal direction as the up-down direction, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the related information R may be printed on the gaming card P1 with the short side as the up-down direction. Furthermore, the planar shape of the gaming card P1 is not limited to a rectangular shape and may be changed arbitrarily. For example, the planar shape of the gaming card P1 may be a square, a circle, a polygon, or the like.

[0128] (15) In the above-described embodiments, the gaming card P1 is moved by the movement amount D determined by lottery, but the method for determining the movement amount D of the gaming card P1 is not limited to the above examples. For example, the control device 13 may change the movement amount D of the gaming card P1 according to the distance the supply device 341 has paid out the gaming card P1.

[0129] For example, the supply device 341 first moves the game card P1 by 1 / 15 of the length L of the game card P1 in the longitudinal direction. Then, when 1 / 3 of the game card P1 is exposed from the supply device 341, the supply device 341 dispenses the remaining portion of the game card P1 (the portion of length 2 / 3L) all at once. With the above configuration, the game card P1 is moved little by little at the beginning of dispensing the game card P1, thereby maintaining the user's sense of anticipation, and by dispensing the remaining portion all at once when the dispensing of the game card P1 has progressed moderately, it is possible to prevent the user from quitting the game in the middle of dispensing the game card P1.

[0130] (16) In the above-described embodiments, the supply device 341 intermittently advances the game card P1 multiple times to thereby release it onto the game field F. However, the supply device 341 may continuously advance the game card P1 without stopping midway through the advancement, thereby releasing it onto the game field F. In other words, the supply device 341 may continuously move the game card P1 from the start of discharge until it is released onto the game field F.

[0131] Furthermore, the supply device 341 may selectively execute an operation of advancing the gaming card P1 intermittently and an operation of advancing the gaming card P1 continuously. According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize a highly entertaining game that includes the game feature of quickly dispensing a desired gaming card P1 and the game feature of gradually revealing the related information R to dispensing a gaming card P1 that the user did not expect.

[0132] (17) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the related information R of the gaming card P1 includes an image R1 and a control parameter R2, but the information included in the related information R is not limited to the above examples and can be changed as desired.

[0133] For example, information regarding the progress of the game (hereinafter referred to as "progress information") may be included in the related information R. The progress information is any information regarding the progress of the game, such as the objective, conditions, procedures, actions, or rules of the game. Examples of progress information include a string of characters representing the objective of the game, such as "Let's drop the cards!", or a string of characters representing conditions, procedures, or actions, such as "Drop four types of cards to enter a lottery to play against an enemy character!" or "Insert 20 medals to drop a ball!". By visibly displaying the game progress information on the gaming card P1 in addition to information regarding the gaming card P1 itself (e.g., the image R1 and the control parameter R2), the user can grasp the progress information while focusing their eyes on the gaming mechanism 23 and concentrating on the game, without having to move their eyes to the explanations installed around the gaming mechanism 23.

[0134] In the above description, the progress information has been described as information included in the related information R, but the progress information may be interpreted as information separate from the related information R. That is, the related information R including the progress information may be displayed on the gaming card P1, or the progress information may be displayed on the gaming card P1 in addition to the related information R. Furthermore, in the above description, attention has been focused on the related information R of the gaming card P1, but similarly, for the gaming card P4, a form in which the related information E includes the progress information, or a form in which the progress information is displayed in addition to the related information E, may be adopted.

[0135] (18) In the above-described embodiments, a match lottery game is exemplified, but the content of the game using the related information R of the gaming card P1 that has fallen from the gaming table 31 is not limited to the above examples. For example, when the gaming card P1 falls from the gaming table 31, the control device 13 may award the user a reward (e.g., gaming medals P2) in a quantity specified by the related information R of the gaming card P1. The control device 13 may also generate an effect (e.g., a dramatic effect) specified by the related information R of the gaming card P1.

[0136] A bingo game may also be played using the gaming card P1. For example, the related information R of the gaming card P1 specifies one of multiple numbers on the bingo card. The control device 13 sets, among the multiple squares on the bingo card displayed on the display device 21, the square with the number specified by the related information R of the gaming card P1 that fell from the gaming table 31 to an open state. The control device 13 sets each square on the bingo card to an open state each time the gaming card P1 falls, and determines a win when the squares set in the open state are aligned in a row (bingo). A reward is awarded to a user who wins the bingo game.

[0137] A poker game may also be played using the gaming cards P1. For example, the related information R of the gaming cards P1 specifies a combination of playing card designs (spade, clover, diamond, heart) and numbers (1 to 13). The control device 13 determines whether any poker hand has been achieved with the five gaming cards P1 dropped from the gaming table 31, and awards a reward to the user according to the achieved hand.

[0138] As can be understood from the above examples, the related information R is any information applicable to various games. As described above, the user adjusts the supply positions of the game medals P2 so that game cards P1 that can advantageously develop the game fall from the game table 31. For example, in a bingo game, the user adjusts the supply positions of the game medals P2 while visually checking the related information R of each game card P1 on the game table 31 so that game cards P1 that are likely to result in a bingo fall from the game table 31. Also, in a poker game, the user adjusts the supply positions of the game medals P2 while visually checking the related information R of each game card P1 on the game table 31 so that game cards P1 that are likely to result in a high-payout combination fall from the game table 31.

[0139] (19) In each of the above-described embodiments, the movement amount D of the gaming card P1 is drawn by lottery in the movement amount lottery, but the object of the lottery in the movement amount lottery is not limited to the movement amount D. For example, in the movement amount lottery, the control device 13 may determine the rotation angle of the rotating body 38 (e.g., half a rotation, one rotation, two rotations, etc.) by lottery. When the rotating body 38 rotates by the rotation angle determined by the movement amount lottery, the gaming card P1 advances by the movement amount corresponding to the rotation angle.

[0140] (20) In the above-described embodiments, a game using a gaming card P1, a gaming medal P2, a gaming ball P3, and a gaming card P4 is illustrated, but the types of gaming media P used in the game are not limited to the above examples. For example, a pusher game using only a gaming card P1, or a pusher game using either a gaming medal P2 or a gaming ball P3 and a gaming card P1 can also be implemented.

[0141] (21) In the above-described embodiments, the related information R is displayed on the gaming card P1, but the type of gaming medium P on which the related information R is displayed is not limited to the above examples. For example, the related information R may be displayed on a gaming medal P2 or a gaming ball P3 instead of the gaming card P1.

[0142] (22) The specific configuration of the supply device 341 that supplies the game cards P1 to the game field F is arbitrary and is not limited to the examples in the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, the game cards P1 may be transported by an arbitrary transport mechanism 37 such as a belt conveyor or a freight car model.

[0143] (23) In the above-described embodiments, the game system 100 is installed in real space. However, the game system 100 may also be implemented as a virtual object installed in a virtual space implemented by computational processing. Therefore, a service similar to the game system 100 in the above-described embodiments may be provided by an information device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. For example, a game similar to the game system 100 may be implemented as an application game provided by a program executed by the information device, or as a cloud game provided by a server capable of communicating with the information device.

[0144] (24) As described above, the functions of the game system 100 according to each of the above-described embodiments are realized through cooperation between one or more processors constituting the control device 13 and a program stored in the storage device 14. The programs exemplified above can be provided in a form stored on a computer-readable recording medium and installed on a computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, such as an optical recording medium (optical disk) such as a CD-ROM, but also includes any known form of recording medium, such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. Note that a non-transitory recording medium includes any recording medium other than a transitory, propagating signal, and does not exclude volatile recording media. Furthermore, in a configuration in which a distribution device distributes a program via a communication network, the recording medium storing the program in the distribution device corresponds to the non-transitory recording medium described above.

[0145] (25) The term "nth" (n is a natural number) in this application is used only as a formal and convenient label to distinguish each element in the description and does not have any substantive meaning. Therefore, there is no room for restrictive interpretation of the position or order of each element based on the term "nth."

[0146] [Additional Notes] From the above description, for example, the following preferred embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood: Note that, to facilitate understanding of each embodiment, reference numerals in the drawings are conveniently written in parentheses below, but this is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0147] [Supplementary Note 1] A game system (100) according to one aspect (Supplementary Note 1) of the present disclosure includes a game mechanism (23) that drops first game media (P1, P4), on which related information (R, E) is visibly displayed, from a game table (31) by reciprocating a movable table (32) above the game table (31), and a control unit (13) that progresses a game in accordance with the related information (R, E) of the first game media (P1, P4) that has dropped from the game table (31). In the above aspect, the related information (R, E) that the control unit (13) applies to the progress of the game is visibly displayed on the first game media (P1, P4), and the game progresses in accordance with the related information (R, E) of the first game media (P1, P4) that has dropped from the game table (31). Therefore, the user can grasp the progress of the game as the first game media (P1, P4) fall while keeping his / her eyes fixed on the game mechanism (23).

[0148] The "(first, second, third, fourth) game media" are any tangible objects used in the games provided by the game system (100). The game media may take any form. For example, objects of any shape, such as flat game cards, spherical game balls, or disc-shaped game medals, are examples of "game media."

[0149] The "related information (R, E)" is any information that is applied to the progress of the game by the control unit (13). For example, any parameter that can be applied to the game, such as the type, ability value, or attribute of an object (e.g., a character or an item) printed on the gaming medium, is exemplified as the "related information (R, E)."

[0150] "The related information (R, E) is visibly displayed" means that the related information (R, E) is formed on the gaming medium so that the user can visually confirm the related information (R, E). For example, a state in which the related information (R, E) is printed on the gaming medium, a state in which an object representing the related information (R, E) is placed on the gaming medium, or a state in which the related information (R, E) is displayed by a display device are exemplified as states in which the related information (R, E) is visibly displayed.

[0151] "Progressing the game in accordance with the related information (R, E)" means that the related information (R, E) affects the progress of the game. In other words, any state in which the progress of the game changes depending on the presence or absence or content of the related information (R, E) is interpreted as a state in which "progressing the game in accordance with the related information (R, E)."

[0152] [Supplementary Note 2] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 2) of Supplementary Note 1, a first supply device (341) is further provided that supplies the first game medium (P1, P4) onto the game table (31) or the movable table (32), and the first supply device (341) advances the first game medium (P1, P4) toward the game table (31) or the movable table (32) each time a predetermined condition related to the game is met, while holding the first game medium (P1, P4) in a state in which the related information (R, E) is visible, and releases the first game medium (P1, P4) onto the game table (31) or the movable table (32) when the predetermined condition is met multiple times. In the above-described embodiment, the first game medium (P1, P4) advances toward the game table (31) or the movable table (32) each time a predetermined condition is met, and the first game medium (P1, P4) is released to the game table (31) or the movable table (32) when the condition is met multiple times. That is, the first game medium (P1, P4) is held in the first supply device (341) until the condition is met multiple times. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the first game medium (P1, P4) is released to the gaming mechanism (23) when the condition is met once, the user's anticipation of the first game medium (P1, P4) being released to the gaming mechanism (23) can be maintained for a long period of time. Furthermore, by gradually advancing the first game medium (P1, P4), the user can gradually view the related information (R, E) displayed on the first game medium (P1, P4).

[0153] The first game medium (P1, P4) advances toward the gaming mechanism (23) each time a predetermined condition is met, and is released toward the gaming mechanism (23) when the condition is met multiple times. In other words, when the predetermined condition is met only once, the first game medium (P1, P4) is not released to the gaming mechanism (23).

[0154] The advancement amount of the first game medium (P1, P4) at one time may be a fixed value or a variable value. That is, in addition to a form in which the first game medium (P1, P4) advances by a predetermined amount each time a condition is met, a form in which the advancement distance of the first game medium (P1, P4) changes over time (for example, depending on the number of times a condition is met) is envisioned.

[0155] [Supplementary Note 3] The specific example (Supplementary Note 3) of Supplementary Note 2 further includes a second supply device (342) that supplies a second game medium (P2) having a different shape from the first game medium (P1, P4) onto the gaming table (31) or the movable table (32) in response to a user's instruction, and the predetermined condition includes a condition related to the state of the second game medium (P2). In the above aspect, the fulfillment of the condition related to the state of the second game medium (P2) promotes the release of the first game medium (P1, P4) from the gaming mechanism (23). This promotes the supply of the second game medium (P2) in response to a user's instruction (i.e., the user's use of the second game medium (P2)). This also realizes a highly entertaining game in which the player hopes that the second game medium (P2) will be in a state that satisfies the predetermined condition, so that the first game medium (P1, P4) will be released from the first supply device (341).

[0156] The specific content of the "condition related to the state of the second game medium (P2)" is arbitrary. Specifically, a condition related to the movement of the second game medium (P2) is exemplified. For example, any condition such as the second game medium (P2) entering a lottery hole (a so-called chucker) on the front of the movable table (32), the second game medium (P2) dropping from the movable table (32) onto the game table (31), the second game medium (P2) reaching a predetermined position on the game table (31) or the movable table (32), the number of second game media (P2) dropping from the game table (31) reaching a predetermined value, or the number of second game media (P2) supplied to the game table (31) or the movable table (32) reaching a predetermined value is exemplified as the "condition related to the state of the second game medium (P2)."

[0157] [Supplementary Note 4] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 4) of Supplementary Note 3, a third game medium (P3) having a different shape from the first game medium (P1, P4) is placed on the game table (31) or the movable table (32), and the predetermined condition includes the third game medium (P3) falling from the game table (31). In the above embodiment, the falling of the third game medium (P3) promotes the release of the first game medium (P1, P4) to the game mechanism (23). This effectively motivates the user to supply a large number of second game media (P2) to the game mechanism (23) to promote the drop of the third game medium (P3). This also realizes a highly entertaining game in which the user hopes that the third game medium (P3) will reach a state related to the predetermined condition, so that the first game medium (P1, P4) will be released from the first supply device (341).

[0158] The "condition" including "the third game medium (P3) falling from the game table (31)" includes not only one third game medium (P3) falling from the game table (31), but also the number of third game media (P3) falling from the game table (31) reaching a predetermined value.

[0159] [Supplementary Note 5] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 5) of Supplementary Note 3 or Supplementary Note 4, the position to which the second game medium (P2) is supplied by the second supply device (342) is changed in response to instructions from the user. In the above embodiment, the second game medium (P2) falls from the game table (31) as the movable table (32) moves back and forth, and the first game media (P1, P4) also move together with the second game medium (P2) and fall from the game table (31). Therefore, the user can adjust the supply position of the second game medium (P2) so that the first game media (P1, P4) are more likely to fall from the game table (31). Furthermore, since the related information (R, E) is displayed on the first game medium (P1, P4), the user can check the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) and adjust the supply position of the second game medium (P2) while keeping his or her eyes on the game mechanism (23).

[0160] The specific configuration for "changing the position where the second game medium (P2) is supplied in response to an instruction from the user" is arbitrary. For example, a configuration in which the user can change the direction of the second supply device (342) is conceivable. For example, a configuration in which the user can manually move or rotate the second supply device (342), or a configuration in which a drive mechanism operating in response to an instruction from the user moves or rotates the second supply device (342) is exemplified. Also, a configuration in which the user can change the path of the second game medium (P2) after it is released by the second supply device (342) is possible.

[0161] [Supplementary Note 6] In any specific example (Supplementary Note 6) of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5, the control unit (13) executes a first lottery game using the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31). In the above aspect, since the first lottery game is executed using the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31), it is possible to effectively encourage users to play the game while paying attention to the first game medium (P1, P4).

[0162] [Supplementary Note 7] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 7) of Supplementary Note 6, the first lottery game is a game in which one of a plurality of first options (63) including a first option (63 a) corresponding to the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31) is selected. According to the above aspect, the user can easily grasp the relationship between the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31) and the result of the first lottery game.

[0163] [Supplementary Note 8] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 8) of Supplementary Note 6 or Supplementary Note 7, the control unit (13) executes a second lottery game in which one of a plurality of second options (47) is selected, and progresses the first lottery game in accordance with the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31) and the result of the second lottery game. In the above-described aspect, the progress of the first lottery game is affected not only by the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) dropped from the game table (31) but also by the result of the second lottery game. Therefore, compared to an aspect in which the progress of the first lottery game is affected only by the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4), it is possible to diversify the progress of the first lottery game.

[0164] "Proceeding the first lottery game in accordance with the related information (R, E) and the result of the second lottery game" means that the related information (R, E) and the result of the second lottery game affect the progress of the first lottery game. In other words, any state in which the progress of the game changes in accordance with the presence or content of the related information (R, E) and the result of the second lottery game (the selected second option (47)) is interpreted as a state in which "the first lottery game proceeds in accordance with the related information (R, E) and the result of the second lottery game."

[0165] [Supplementary Note 9] The specific example (Supplementary Note 9) of Supplementary Note 8 further includes a fourth supply device (344) that supplies a fourth game medium (P4) corresponding to the second option (47) selected in the second lottery game onto the gaming table (31) or the movable table (32) depending on the result of the first lottery game, and the control unit (13) awards a reward to the user when the fourth game medium (P4) falls from the gaming table (31). According to the above aspect, a reward is awarded to the user when the fourth game medium (P4) falls. Therefore, an incentive can be given to the user to progress through the game so that the fourth game medium (P4) falls from the gaming table (31). Furthermore, an effective incentive can be given to a user aiming to obtain a reward to continue playing the game until the fourth game medium (P4) falls.

[0166] The "fourth game medium (P4) corresponding to the second option (47)" is any game medium that reflects the second option (47). For example, the game medium on which the second option (47) is displayed is exemplified as the "fourth game medium (P4)."

[0167] A "reward" is something that benefits a user. Specifically, a "value medium" is an example of a reward. A value medium can be tangible or intangible value. Tangible value media include, for example, physical medals (token coins), currency (coins), physical cards, or tickets. On the other hand, intangible value media include, for example, electronic medals, electronic currency (electronic money), credits, points, or items. "(First, second, third, fourth) game media" can also be included in the concept of "value medium." However, "reward" is not limited to value media. For example, the right to perform a specific action, such as the right to play a specific game, may be granted to a user as a "reward." A "reward" can also be expressed as a goal that a user aims to obtain in a game.

[0168] [Supplementary Note 10] In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note 10) of Supplementary Note 6 to Supplementary Note 9, a lottery mechanism (51) that swings with a rolling element (B) placed thereon is further provided, and the first lottery game is a game that progresses depending on the position on the lottery mechanism (51) that the rolling element (B) reaches. According to the above aspect, the rolling element (B) rolls due to the swing of the lottery mechanism (51), and the first lottery game progresses depending on the position that the rolling element (B) reaches. Therefore, it is possible to provide the user with the excitement of hoping that the rolling element (B) will reach a desired position on the lottery mechanism (51).

[0169] The "rolling body (B)" is an object of any shape that can roll on the lottery board surface. A typical example of the "rolling body (B)" is a sphere, but three-dimensional objects such as polyhedrons are also included in the concept of the "rolling body (B)".

[0170] [Appendix 11] A control method for a game system (100) according to one aspect (Appendix 11) of the present disclosure is a control method for a game system (100) including a game mechanism (23) that drops a first game medium (P1, P4), on which related information (R, E) is visibly displayed, from a game table (31) by moving a movable table (32) back and forth on the game table (31), and includes progressing a game according to the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) that has dropped from the game table (31).

[0171] [Appendix 12] A program according to one aspect (Appendix 12) of the present disclosure causes a game system (100) having a game mechanism (23) that drops a first game medium (P1, P4), on which related information (R, E) is visibly displayed, from a game table (31) by moving a movable table (32) back and forth on the game table (31), to function as a control unit (13) that progresses a game in accordance with the related information (R, E) of the first game medium (P1, P4) that has dropped from the game table (31).

[0172] 100...game system, 10...game unit, 11...station, 12...lottery unit, 13...control device, 14...memory device, 21...display device, 22...operation unit, 221...operation device, 221a...angle operator, 221b...insertion operator, 222...reception device, 223...payout device, 23...game mechanism, 31...game table, 311...tip portion, 32...movable table, 33...fixed wall, 34...supply system, 341 to 345...supply device, 35...detection device, 36...electronic tag, 37...conveying mechanism, 38...rotating body, 51...lottery mechanism, 511...lottery wheel 511, 512, 513...side wall portion, 514...lottery surface, 515...protrusion portion, 56...lottery groove, 57...detection device, 60...battle screen, 61...battle area, 62...lottery area, 63...options.

Claims

1. A gaming system comprising: a gaming mechanism that drops a first gaming medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a gaming table by moving a movable table back and forth on the gaming table; and a control unit that progresses a game in accordance with the related information of the first gaming medium that has dropped from the gaming table.

2. The game system of claim 1, further comprising a first supply device that supplies the first game medium onto the game table or the movable table, wherein the first supply device advances the first game medium toward the game table or the movable table each time a predetermined condition related to the game is met, while holding the first game medium in a state where the related information is visible, and releases the first game medium onto the game table or the movable table when the predetermined condition is met multiple times.

3. A game system according to claim 2, further comprising a second supply device that supplies a second game medium, which has a shape different from that of the first game medium, onto the game table or the movable table in response to instructions from a user, and wherein the predetermined conditions include conditions relating to the state of the second game medium.

4. A game system according to claim 3, wherein a third game medium having a shape different from that of the first game medium is placed on the game table or the movable table, and the predetermined condition includes the third game medium falling from the game table.

5. A game system according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the position to which the second game medium is supplied by the second supply device is changed in response to an instruction from a user.

6. The game system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a first lottery game using the related information of the first game medium that has fallen from the game table.

7. The game system of claim 6, wherein the first lottery game is a game in which one of a plurality of first options is selected, including a first option corresponding to the related information of the first gaming medium dropped from the gaming table.

8. A game system according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the control unit executes a second lottery game in which one of a plurality of second options is selected, and progresses the first lottery game according to the related information of the first gaming medium dropped from the gaming table and the result of the second lottery game.

9. The game system of claim 8, further comprising a fourth supply device that supplies a fourth game medium corresponding to the second option selected in the second lottery game onto the game table or the movable table depending on the result of the first lottery game, and the control unit awards a reward to the user when the fourth game medium falls from the game table.

10. The game system of claim 6, further comprising a lottery mechanism that swings with a rolling body placed on it, wherein the first lottery game is a game that progresses depending on the position that the rolling body reaches on the lottery mechanism.

11. A method for controlling a game system having a gaming mechanism that drops a first gaming medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a gaming table by moving a movable table back and forth on the gaming table, the method including progressing a game in accordance with the related information of the first gaming medium that has dropped from the gaming table.

12. A program that causes a game system equipped with a gaming mechanism that drops a first gaming medium, on which related information is visibly displayed, from a gaming table by moving a movable table back and forth on the gaming table, to function as a control unit that progresses the game in accordance with the related information of the first gaming medium that has dropped from the gaming table.

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